Inspiration Board: Barbie - Lit Lace

This recent look of Barbie's is daring as it stands, but is easily re-imagined in a more demure way that still maintains the fashion-foward vibe. It's the addition of a nude cami below that makes all the difference (you can play down the peekaboo aspect by layering white, gray, ivory or black below). Then, you can have at you with any manner of lace that floats your soap - a tank, a peplum top, a blouse. Especially that whole blouse thing! There are SO many gorgeous blouses out right now - absolute confections of pieces that a get a modern update and informal twist when paired with skinny jeans. Don't just stop at lace pieces either; consider eyelet, crochet or broderie anglaise, ruffled or embroidered/embellished pieces and combinations of the above. Finish the look with ankle strap sandals, as Barbie has (feel free to cuff or roll full-length denim to a shorter length to show off the shoe more) for a flirty vibe or add some extra edge with fierce pointy-toe pumps. The coup de grace of the look is the pop of color from a bright bag. Get your Nikki vibe on by choosing and iconic red, go Barbie with neon rose or be daringly summertime-ready with bright turquoise, lime or lavender (or yellow, of course :)). I you don't happen to have a bright bag atm, no prob - add your brights via your shoes, or jewels: statement earrings, a bold bracelet (or pile of them), a go-big-or-go-home ring. If you're tucking your blouse in, a bright belt will work as well. For chilly nights, toss a trench coat, or blazer over blouses. A long cardi dangling off one shoulder makes a sexy alternative topper for cami's and tanks and similar shoulder-baring styles. I hope this inspires you to give a femme-meets-bright look a try sometime soon. Happy styling loves!